Wow. I’m still shaken up. And I’m really not being dramatic. DETROIT was so heavy, I almost walked out. The part I can’t get over is that it’s based on a true story. Ladies and gentlemen, you’re about to witness Detroit like you never have before.
The film hits theaters this weekend (August 4), and my hope is that each and every one of you will be able to go see it. Even if this article convinces one person, I’ll be happy. This story needs to be heard, and more importantly, needs to be seen. The reality that this is the world that we live in is so mind-boggling to me. What’s worse is that these issues of racism and police brutality continue to be something that we as people are not able to change or fix.
“From the Academy Award-winning director of THE HURT LOCKER and ZERO DARK THIRTY, DETROIT tells the gripping story of one of the most terrifying moments during the civil unrest that rocked Detroit in the summer of ’67.”
The mere fact that the film was directed by Kathryn Bigelow is almost reason enough to go. I remember how powerful both those films mentioned above were, which meant DETROIT was in good hands. Especially Zero Dark Thirty, which documented the capturing of the world’s biggest terrorist: Osama bin Laden. That was just so surreal to watch on the big screen. Written by Mark Boal also, their ability to retell such important controversial events in history is unmatched.
First of all, I have to give a huge thanks to my babygirl Asia. She literally gave me so many options on attending an advanced screening, and it was the biggest tease because my schedule just didn’t allow for it. Tonight was the night. 7pm at the Real D screening room in the heart of Beverly Hills. Hello, beautiful 90210. I used to serve at Coupa Cafe down the street, so this was very familiar territory.
I busted my ass after work to try to make it on time, but I knew I would be a little tardy. I enter a very dark room and find an open seat towards the back. I was not prepared for the next 2 hours and 22 minutes that awaited me. In all honesty, I almost didn’t make it. In fact, an hour in, I saw a lady straight up get up and walk out. I didn’t blame her. I could see her reactions leading up to this moment and wanted to tell her so badly that I was in the same exact boat.
First off, I’ve never seen Detroit in this light. My knowledge of Detroit goes as far as Eminem. I’m 100% still in shock at what I witnessed on that screen tonight. The magnitude of racism, discrimination, violence, and police brutality is something I wouldn’t pray on my worst enemy. These African American kids were treated like straight animals, for NO reason at all other than their skin color.
And what BAFFLED me more were the white girls that were involved in the case, that were also belittled to that level. We always think, “Oh, they wouldn’t do that to them if they were white.” Right? WRONG. Not only were they white, but they were FEMALES. And they were treated like OBJECTS. Sorry. This is bringing up a lot of emotion for me, even now as I write this hours later.
There were so many instances that brought tears to my eyes, but one scene sent me over the edge. I just sunk in my chair and started sobbing, covering my face and tears with my jacket. I really wanted to walk out at that point, I couldn’t take it. This was real. This really happened. I could not fathom that thought for the life of me.
“Detroit” focuses on an incident during 1967 riots where police killed 3 black men & beat 9 others. @JohnBoyega joins @CBSThisMorning: pic.twitter.com/OYIEg71ozd
— CBS News (@CBSNews) August 1, 2017
I don’t care who you are. GO see this movie. If you’re a history major, a police officer, have a voice in the community, feel strongly about civil rights, or have a soul, even more reason to go see it. This movie is worth the trip to the movies and definitely worth the money. Educate yourself and get immersed in something that matters. This is a testament and a message to stand up for what’s right.
Side note, this made me miss Obama lmao. So much respect for all the actors and anyone on the production that that were involved to create this masterpiece. They literally couldn’t have chose a better cast. This deserves an Oscar.
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